Natural Ways to Kill Indoor Plant Bugs

Isolate pest-infested plants from healthy plants.

Most indoor plants require relatively little care and remain healthy with a moderate level of attention. Different pests sometimes attack indoor plants, however. The pests may come inside with outdoor plants or they are present on new nursery-grown plants. Once pests settle in, they are notoriously difficult to eradicate, often spreading to healthy, unaffected plants. You can get rid of pests without relying on toxic chemicals, although it requires persistence.

Hand-Picking

Some common plant pests, including mealy bugs, scale and light infestations of aphids, are safely removed by picking the insects from the plant with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. Similarly, you can also use a soft toothbrush to remove the bugs. Before treating the plant, dab a bit of alcohol on the underside of an inconspicuous leaf to be sure the alcohol doesn't burn the plant. Remove the pests carefully with the swab and try not to let to much rubbing alcohol come in contact with the leaves.

Insecticidal Soap Sprays

Insecticidal soap sprays, safe for people and most plants, are an effective way to treat soft-bodied pests that commonly feast on indoor plants, including spider mites, aphids, mealybugs, scale and thrips. You can make a solution yourself by mixing liquid dish soap with water. But Colorado State University Extension advises the use of commercial products because homemade solutions are harsh and may damage tender plants. Use the products strictly according to label recommendations. Because the spray provides no residual effects, reapplication may be required every week until the pests are eliminated. To be sure the spray is safe for your plant, test a small patch on an inconspicuous leaf.

Traps

Sticky traps may not completely eliminate pesky flying insects such as whiteflies and fungus gnats, but when used consistently, they will reduce the numbers considerably. You can make your own sticky traps by smearing a thin layer of petroleum jelly on a piece of bright yellow poster board or cardboard. Or you can purchase yellow sticky traps at most garden supply centers. Place the traps on the soil around the base of the plant, then replace the traps with fresh traps as necessary.

Cultural Controls

Healthy indoor plants are more pest-resistant and better able to withstand insect infestations. Water according to the needs of the plant. Although requirements vary, most plants perform best if you allow the top of the soil to dry out between waterings. Usually, soggy, waterlogged soil creates weak plants susceptible to pests and disease. Similarly, fertilize according to the requirements of the plant. Most indoor plants benefit from feeding during spring and summer only. Don't overfertilize because too much fertilizer creates weak, floppy plants. Be sure the plant has adequate air circulation and provide enough sunlight. Trim and discard dead leaves and infested plant parts. Don't let debris gather on top of the potting soil.

About the Author

M.H. Dyer began her writing career as a staff writer at a community newspaper and is now a full-time commercial writer. She writes about a variety of topics, with a focus on sustainable, pesticide- and herbicide-free gardening. She is an Oregon State University Master Gardener and Master Naturalist and holds a Master of Fine Arts in creative nonfiction writing.